Governor Walz, DFL Leaders Release Proposal for Special Session on Guns, School Safety

[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz and DFL legislative leaders today released a detailed proposal for a special session focused on gun violence and school safety. The Governor and DFL leaders proposed specific action on guns as well as bipartisan proposals on school safety, additional mental health resources, and new funding for law enforcement.

“This proposal meets the expectations that Minnesotans have for their elected leaders – that we respond to threats to public safety and take direct action on guns,” said Governor Walz. “We will not let this issue simply go away. Our offer addresses mental health, school safety, support for law enforcement, and most importantly, common sense gun laws.”

“In the wake of an unspeakable tragedy, DFL leaders have come to the table with a substantial list of proposals to make Minnesota a safer place,” said Senate DFL Leader Erin Murphy. “I’m disappointed Republicans refuse to address the issue of gun violence in any real way. Minnesotans want a comprehensive approach, which should include funding for school safety and mental health access, as well as taking action to limit the easy access to weapons of war on our streets. We are ready to make significant progress, but cannot do that without Republicans showing courage on this issue. Parents from Annunciation, other schools, and Minnesotans around the state are demanding that we do something, and so far only one side is listening to them.”

“House DFLers are committed to meaningful action on gun violence, including getting weapons of war off our streets. We have made a good-faith offer to the Republicans that includes their policy priorities in an attempt to reach a bipartisan agreement, but the question remains: will they join us in this effort?” said Representative Zack Stephenson. “Minnesotans deserve to be safe from gun violence. They are demanding action, and they deserve to know where Republicans stand on addressing gun violence. We shouldn’t have to endure more mass shootings, more violence, and more grief. Now is the time for common-sense action to keep our communities safe.”